When it comes to what occupies real estate in our minds, I'd venture to guess that, likely, fires aren't a top thought or even concern. Thankfully, fires are relatively rare, and that only goes to demonstrate that our fire prevention methods truly do work. However, it would be a wise move on our part to look at the actual situation and occurrences of fires in our country - if only to help us see how we can be better prepared.
The NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) provides all kinds of data that relate to fires, causes, and every possible statistic surrounding fires, fire safety, and fire prevention. In this particular report from 2017, they discuss certain trends in fires that occurred all across America.
Nationwide, over the course of 2017, 1.3 million fires broke out - these were fires that required a response from a local fire department. Every 24 seconds, an alarm went off which required firefighters to respond. A building was on fire every 63 seconds, and a house was on fire every 88 seconds. When you take this data together, every minute, there was a fire.
The NFPA also provided data regarding injuries and fatalities. Most were a result of home fires - 72% of all injuries and 77% of all casualties. That information is a little more tragic when you realize that the majority of home fires are accidents.
Loss occurred not only in human life and injury but also in property, totaling $23 billion in damage. When all loss is considered, and then you factor in that 22,500 fires are a result of arson (up 13% from 2016), it highlights the tragic loss.
When you own any kind of property, it's not hard to see why it's important to take such critical steps to protect your assets as thoroughly as possible. Knowing important data like this only strengthens your ability to prevent fires.
Flameproofing is one way you can reduce the risks and losses associated with fires. By having flammable materials such as wood, drapes, curtains, carpets, furniture, and upholstery treated with fire retardants, you significantly reduce the severity and spread of a fire, which reduces both loss of life and property.
If your business has flameproofing needs, please call us today. Queens Flameproofing has been serving all of New York City and beyond for over 50 years. We have the expertise and experience to protect your assets and meet all FDNY and city codes. Please give us a call today to discuss your needs: 800-972-5587.